Is Papuan Local Governments' digital transformation encouragement for the greater good? An Indigenous youth perspective

Purpose This article addresses a systemic societal problem between Indigenous communities' prosperity and Papuan Local Governments (PLGs)’ “digital transformation” policy depictions, as those policies fundamentally disregard societies' well-being. It further investigates youth perspectives as Indigenous communities' representation of PLGs' excitement in compelling digital transformation to the locals. Design/methodology/approach The study collects its data through theme-centred interviews, gaining in-depth insights from 15 Indigenous youth from different socio-economic statuses. Using Kant's interpretivism as its philosophical paradigm, this paper analyses and integrates all the transcripts, capturing social-economic realities in the local communities concerning digital transformation efforts by PLGs. Findings Firstly, Indigenous youth from remote areas perceive disconnection from the digital transformation initiatives. Their lack of access to essential services leads to disillusionment, causing them to view PLGs' initiatives as illusory promises. Secondly, in areas with existing digital infrastructure, systemic socio-economic barriers hinder youth's full engagement with and benefits from these initiatives. Overall, it suggests that PLGs have oversimplified the digital transformation concept, neglecting society's fundamental socio-economic and infrastructural needs, which in turn creates a significant gap between policy and real-world conditions. Originality/value This study offers valuable insights for local policymakers to pragmatically reassess their agenda-setting, grounded in a multi-stage approach that considers real-world conditions. By doing so, PLGs could improve the effectiveness and legitimacy of their policy outcomes while objectively addressing communities' critical and future needs and potentials.